ST. LOUIS – Ameren is taking another step to deliver customers reliable energy by testing advanced dynamic line rating (DLR) technology on its existing transmission system. This innovative technology gives grid operators real-time insight into highly localized weather data and the precise operating conditions of transmission lines. With this real-time information, operators can safely move electricity when and where it’s needed most.
By utilizing these potential capacity gains on some of the busiest transmission lines already in place, DLR helps strengthen reliability, improve safer operations and reduce costs, delivering direct benefits to customers across the region.
“Strategic deployments of dynamic line ratings are on the leading edge of grid-enhancing technologies in the United States,” said Shawn Schukar, chairman and president of Ameren Transmission Company of Illinois. “When you look at the fast pace of increasing demand for energy in our region, this technology could help be a strong complementary tool as more robust transmission infrastructure is being built. It can also help us better understand where, how and when new transmission infrastructure needs to be built.”
Ameren is partnering with Heimdall Power to install 30 sensor units on its transmission system. These sensor units, called ‘Neurons™, clamp directly onto transmission lines. Installation sites were strategically selected to test the technology on some of the most congested lines on Ameren’s transmission system. Congestion occurs when the demand to transport electricity across a specific transmission line exceeds the conventional rating of the line.
“The real time aspect could be particularly valuable on days when weather conditions are favorable. We may see the most value on cold or windy days,” said Robert Clausius, senior manager, Transmission Asset and Compliance Management. “These conditions can cool down a transmission line and allow more energy to flow through it. We should have more flexibility for safely and reliably rerouting energy to get where it needs to go.”
Temperature, direct sunlight, ice and wind all directly affect how much energy a transmission line can safely carry, which is called capacity. Without real-time visibility into these conditions, Ameren is forced to rely on conventional assumptions that dictate the safe capacity for a transmission line. Heimdall Power’s technology has been proven in the field to enhance the ability to utilize all the capacity of transmission lines, which maximizes value, while also contributing to more safe and reliable operations.
“We are building a smarter energy grid,” said Clausius. “Heimdall Power’s technology has performed successfully around the world. This leads us to believe there’s a real opportunity in bringing it to Ameren to strengthen the grid, operate it even safer, and help our customers save money by getting more value out of the assets that we already have.
The first 15 sensors were installed in December 2025. Ameren plans to complete the deployment of 15 more sensors later this year. Further decisions about future deployments will be made as more information is gathered through the pilot project.
About Ameren Corporation
St. Louis-based Ameren Corporation powers the quality of life for 2.5 million electric customers and more than 900,000 natural gas customers in a 67,700-square-mile area through its Ameren Missouri and Ameren Illinois rate-regulated utility subsidiaries. Ameren Illinois provides electric transmission and distribution service and natural gas distribution service. Ameren Missouri provides electric generation, transmission and distribution services, as well as natural gas distribution service. Ameren Transmission Company of Illinois develops, owns and operates rate-regulated regional electric transmission projects in the Midcontinent Independent System Operator, Inc. For more information, visit Ameren.com, or follow us at @AmerenCorp, Facebook.com/AmerenCorp, or LinkedIn.com/company/Ameren.
About Heimdall Power
Founded in 2016, Heimdall Power is redefining grid intelligence to create a smarter, more resilient energy future. Trusted by nearly 100 utilities across 20 countries, Heimdall Power helps utilities optimize grid performance, prevent outages, protect infrastructure, and ensure compliance. At the core of Heimdall Power’s platform is the Neuron™, a cutting-edge, power line–mounted sensor unit with plug-and-play software, advanced communication technology, and drone-based installation. From dynamic line rating (DLR) to asset health monitoring, Heimdall Power arms utilities with real-time insights to drive efficiency and innovation in an evolving energy landscape. Learn more at heimdallpower.com